Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles

Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles are the ultimate summer treat! These delicious and refreshing popsicles combine sweet watermelon and tart kiwi for a delightful experience. Perfect for hot days, family gatherings, or just as a healthy snack, they are easy to make and fun to eat. With only three simple ingredients, you can create a vibrant dessert that kids and adults will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Refreshing: Made with fresh fruit, these popsicles offer a guilt-free way to cool down on warm days.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and minimal equipment, anyone can whip up these tasty treats.
• Customizable Flavors: Adjust sweetness with honey or mix in other fruits for unique variations.
• Perfect for Kids: These Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles are a kid-friendly option that sneaks in healthy fruit without any fuss.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a birthday party, these popsicles are sure to impress guests of all ages.

Tools and Preparation

Making Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your popsicles turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or blender
• Popsicle molds
• Measuring cups
• Spoon for mixing

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or blender: Essential for pureeing the watermelon and kiwi into smooth mixtures.
• Popsicle molds: These help shape your popsicles while freezing them, allowing you to create fun shapes.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your popsicles.

Ingredients

Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles ~ there isn’t a healthier or more refreshing snack you could give yourself, or your family.  Break out these fresh fruit pops on a hot day and you’ll be an instant hero.

Ingredients:
– 1/2 small seedless watermelon
– 4-5 kiwi fruit
– 1 tsp honey (or more to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles

Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon Puree

Remove the flesh from the rind of the watermelon and cut it into large chunks. Process in a food processor or blender until smooth. Pulse to get any remaining chunks. You’ll need 2 cups of puree.

Step 2: Fill Molds with Watermelon Juice

Fill each of 10 popsicle molds about 3/4 full with the watermelon juice. Set in freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Prepare the Kiwi Puree

Meanwhile, peel the kiwi and cut it into chunks. Puree in the same manner as before. Add honey to taste; you’ll need about 1 cup of puree.

Step 4: Combine Layers in Molds

Fill each of the popsicle molds to the top with kiwi puree, then insert a stick into each slot. The mixture will be thick enough that the sticks will stand up by themselves. Freeze until solid, about 4 hours or longer.

Step 5: Unmold Your Popsicles

To remove your popsicles, fill your sink with hot tap water and immerse the mold up to, but not over, the top lip for about 5 seconds. If they don’t budge, immerse for a few seconds more. Note: don’t leave them in hot water too long or they will start to melt.

How to Serve Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles

Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles are not just a delightful treat; they can be served in various creative ways. These popsicles are perfect for summer parties, backyard barbecues, or simply enjoying on a hot day. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your popsicle experience.

Popsicle Party Platter

• Arrange the watermelon kiwi popsicles on a large platter with a mix of fresh fruit like strawberries and blueberries for a colorful display.

Kid-Friendly Snack

• Serve these popsicles as a fun afternoon snack for kids. Pair them with healthy snacks like yogurt or granola bars for a balanced treat.

Refreshing Dessert Option

• Offer watermelon kiwi popsicles as a refreshing dessert after dinner. They are light and won’t weigh you down after a hearty meal.

Picnic Treat

• Pack these popsicles in your cooler for a picnic. They will keep your drinks cool while providing a sweet, fruity refreshment.

How to Perfect Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles

Creating the perfect Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles involves careful preparation and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your popsicles turn out delicious every time.

• Use ripe fruit: Make sure the watermelon and kiwi are fully ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Blend thoroughly: Puree the fruits until completely smooth; this ensures an even texture throughout the popsicle.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the purees before freezing and adjust the honey as needed to suit your preference.
• Prevent freezer burn: Seal your molds tightly to avoid ice crystals forming on the surface of your popsicles.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding mint or lime juice for an extra zesty twist to your watermelon kiwi popsicles.

Best Side Dishes for Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles

When serving Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes that enhance the overall experience. Here are some delicious options that work well together.

1. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds color and flavor, making it a refreshing side dish.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and fresh berries provide creaminess that balances the icy texture of the popsicles.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well with sweet flavors, creating a delightful contrast.
4. Savory Veggie Sticks: Crunchy carrots, celery, and bell peppers offer a healthy snacking option alongside sweet treats.
5. Granola Bars: Homemade or store-bought granola bars make for an easy grab-and-go side that complements fruity flavors.
6. Caprese Skewers: Mini skewers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add an Italian twist that contrasts beautifully with sweet popsicles.
7. Mini Sandwiches: Small sandwiches filled with fresh ingredients create a satisfying bite-sized option next to frozen treats.
8. Smoothie Bowls: Serve smoothie bowls topped with nuts and seeds for another refreshing dessert option that pairs well with the popsicles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Using ripe fruit: Make sure your watermelon and kiwi are ripe. Overripe or underripe fruit can affect the flavor and texture of your popsicles.
• Not blending enough: If you don’t blend the fruit thoroughly, you may end up with chunks in your popsicles. Blend until smooth for a better texture.
• Skipping the freezing step: Allowing the watermelon layer to freeze before adding the kiwi puree is crucial. Skipping this step can lead to mixed layers instead of distinct ones.
• Incorrect mold filling: Don’t overfill your molds. Leave some space at the top so the popsicles have room to expand as they freeze.
• Leaving in hot water too long: When removing popsicles, don’t soak them in hot water for too long. This can cause them to melt before you’re ready to serve.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover popsicles in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep them in the coldest part of your fridge to maintain their texture.

Freezing Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles

• Freeze the popsicles for up to 2 months without losing quality.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results.

Reheating Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles

• Oven: This method isn’t recommended as popsicles should be enjoyed frozen.
• Microwave: Avoid using a microwave; it will cause melting and ruin the popsicle texture.
• Stovetop: Not applicable since these are not meant to be heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles last?

These popsicles can last up to 2 months in the freezer if stored correctly.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes! You can customize your Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles by adding other fruits like strawberries or mangoes for different flavors.

What if I don’t have popsicle molds?

You can use small cups and sticks instead. Just let them freeze until firm.

Are Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles healthy?

Absolutely! They are made with fresh fruit and contain no added sugars beyond honey, making them a nutritious treat.

Final Thoughts

Watermelon Kiwi Popsicles are a delightful, refreshing snack perfect for hot days. Their vibrant colors and fruity flavors make them appealing to both kids and adults alike. Feel free to experiment with different fruits or sweeteners to create your own unique version!